Clinical Social Worker III, Psych

As a Clinical Social Worker III at UM Baltimore Washington Medical Center, you'll have a variety of crucial responsibilities. You’ll autonomously engage in case management, therapeutic crisis intervention, and biopsychosocial assessment. You'll be the lead psychosocial expert in a collaborative healthcare team, providing culturally sensitive care plans that address emotional, social, and spiritual dimensions. Additionally, you'll oversee clinical assessments performed by supervisees, analyzing department effectiveness, while guiding staff through counseling practices. Your role will also involve providing clinical supervision and education on social work practices, ensuring that all patients receive exemplary care tailored to their needs.

To become a Clinical Social Worker III at UM Baltimore Washington Medical Center, you’ll need to hold a Master’s degree in Social Work accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Additionally, you must have a LCSW-C (Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical) licensure from the Maryland Board of Social Work Examiners, along with supervisory status. A minimum of four years of post-Master’s experience is required, ensuring that you possess the necessary skills and practical knowledge to excel in this role.

At UM Baltimore Washington Medical Center, professional development is encouraged and supported. Clinical Social Workers III have opportunities to engage in ongoing training through participation in professional organizations, workshops, and seminars focused on enhancing clinical skills. You’ll also have access to internal training sessions to keep you updated on the latest practices in social work and patient care. This commitment to continuous learning ensures that you remain a skilled and knowledgeable professional in the ever-evolving field of healthcare.

The work environment for a Clinical Social Worker III at UM Baltimore Washington Medical Center is dynamic and collaborative. You’ll be part of a multidisciplinary team that values the contributions of each member, focusing on delivering high-quality care to patients. The facility is recognized for its supportive culture and has received accolades for being a top workplace. You'll work within a vibrant community while being surrounded by experienced professionals dedicated to improving patient outcomes through teamwork and shared expertise.

The salary for the Clinical Social Worker III position at UM Baltimore Washington Medical Center ranges from $36.83 to $55.29 per hour, reflecting your experience and qualifications. In addition to competitive pay, the organization provides a comprehensive benefits package, detailed in the UMMS Benefits Guide, which includes medical, dental, vision insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional growth and development. This robust compensation structure illustrates our commitment to the well-being and satisfaction of our staff.

When asked about your experience with therapeutic crisis intervention, share specific instances where you've successfully implemented strategies to de-escalate a crisis situation. Focus on the techniques you employed, the outcomes achieved, and how your interventions improved patient well-being. Highlight your ability to remain calm, assess the situation, and provide immediate support to those in distress.

In your response, emphasize the importance of conducting thorough biopsychosocial assessments. Discuss how you collect information through active listening, interviews, and collaboration with other healthcare professionals. Share specific examples of how you’ve tailored interventions based on individual patient needs and how this has enhanced their care.

Discuss your understanding of cultural competence and the strategies you use to implement culturally sensitive care plans. This may include conducting individual assessments that respect patients' cultural backgrounds, promoting inclusivity within treatment, and maintaining open communication to understand cultural perspectives. Provide examples of how this approach has positively impacted your interactions with diverse populations.

When handling disagreements, emphasize the importance of communication and collaboration. Share a scenario where you encountered differences of opinion, and describe how you facilitated discussions to reach a consensus. Focus on your ability to remain professional, open-minded, and committed to the best interest of your patients during conflicts.

Select a case that highlights your skills as a Clinical Social Worker. Detail the challenges faced, including any complexities in the patient’s background or needs. Discuss the strategies you employed, the partnerships you formed, and the positive outcomes that resulted. Conclude by reflecting on the lessons learned and any lasting changes made in your practice.

Community resources are vital in providing comprehensive care to patients. Discuss how you utilize local resources to enhance your interventions, ensuring patients have access to support systems that address their unique circumstances. Provide an example of how connecting a patient with a community resource improved their overall health and recovery experiences.

I prioritize continuous professional development by attending workshops, joining professional organizations, and actively engaging in discussions with peers. Mention specific resources or journals you follow to stay informed about emerging trends and evidence-based practices. Highlight how this ongoing education informs your work and positively influences patient outcomes.

In your approach to clinical supervision, emphasize a supportive and constructive environment that encourages growth. Share the techniques you use for providing feedback, setting goals, and fostering a collaborative relationship with supervisees. Provide an example of how your guidance has helped a supervisee enhance their skills and confidence.

Assessing the effectiveness of clinical interventions involves continuous evaluation and feedback. Discuss the different methods you use, such as clinical chart reviews, evaluating patient progress, and obtaining feedback from teammates. Share a specific example where your assessment led to adjustments in the care plan that resulted in improved patient outcomes.

Advocacy is a critical aspect of social work practice. Discuss the various strategies you employ to ensure your patients receive the necessary support. These can include collaborating with healthcare teams, networking with external agencies, and actively voicing patient needs. Highlight a situation where your advocacy made a significant impact on a patient’s care.